Federal Grants

Federal Grants

The Federal Government is the largest grant making body in the field. There are 15 different types of grants, but the main types are:

Formula or "Block" Grants: Non-competitive grants where the funds are allocated according to a set of criteria usually specific to a problem area or geographic region.

Non-Formula or "Project / Research Grants": These are the competitive grants that are awarded by various U.S. Agencies. The grant seeker sets up the project design, but the applications are often long and tedious. Applications are also peer reviewed and take about 3-6 months for response time.

Library Sources:

Federal Grants Management Handbook (Vol. 1&2)
NPR 658.15209 Federal (SP Nonprofit collection located on 2nd floor)
This binder explains about the grant process, from how to prepare a proposal, to the evaluation and selection criteria. Also provides extensive information about managing the grant (reporting, auditing, etc.).

Guide to Federal Funding for Government & Nonprofits (Vol. 1&2 +bulletins)
NPR 353.00752 Guide (SP Nonprofit collection located on 2nd floor)
This binder contains a great index that makes searching the CDFA easier. It is updated quarterly, with monthly bulletins, and can be used to search for grant programs, and keep up to date with news and changes.

*When you find a grant opportunity you may be interested in write down the CFDA number this will make searching easier as you go between different websites and sources.

Also Search the Grant making Agency's Website for further information: